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Move-In Ready: Cochrane Road Self Storage Expansion Completed

As Morgan Hill grows, so does the need for self storage. That’s the driver behind the 50,000 square foot, 420 unit expansion of Cochrane Road Self Storage. The project, now at 150,000 square feet, was completed by Toeniskoetter Construction, Inc., and included the ground-up construction of six metal buildings, a manager’s office, and the implementation of an advanced security system.

Recognizing that security is of utmost concern for customers, the ownership group worked closely with the design team to implement a technologically advanced alarm system and a high definition closed circuit camera system that provides real time monitoring of the facility. An application is even available for customers to download on their smartphones to remotely monitor activity at their own individual unit.

In an effort to differentiate itself in the marketplace and to make the move-in process more pleasant, the expansion included such features as LED lighting in all hallways and units, highly polished concrete floors, and wide driveways. The expanded facility is situated within the Madrone Business Park, and its unique exterior was designed to look like an R&D building so that it would blend in with the neighboring buildings in the Park.

Toeniskoetter Construction was brought in early during the design phase to provide real-time feedback on how design elements would impact cost and schedule. “It is critical to understand the implications of the lines drawn on paper and how a design will translate into real dollars in the field,” said Todd Trekell, Project Manager for Toeniskoetter Development, Inc. “If you want the project to meet your budgeted expectations, the earlier you can engage your contractor and their subcontractors, the better.”

The project, developed on a 2.74 acre parcel contiguous to the original storage facility, had a tight construction schedule. This meant working within available weather windows, being smart about site access, and coordinating with the client, Cochrane Road Self Storage, LLP (CRSS), to deliver the project in phases. “CRSS had marketed the expansion, promising that units would be available by certain dates, so we had to meet those expectations,” said Brett Johnson, Project Manager for Toeniskoetter Construction. “By working with the City of Morgan Hill, we were able to expedite the building final by splitting the project into working stages so customer demand could be met earlier,” Johnson explained.

“The close coordination that Toeniskoetter Construction provided throughout the life of the project was essential to its timely completion,” added Trekell. “Communication is key, and the construction team did a great job of keeping us apprised of progress and alerting us to potential issues.”